Christa

Christa is a feminine given name of Greek origin, derived from Christos, meaning anointed one, itself a translation of the Hebrew Mashiach (Messiah). It developed as a short form of Christina or Christine, names that spread throughout Europe in honor of early Christian saints and martyrs. The name gained particular popularity in German-speaking countries during the twentieth century, with a notable bearer being Christa McAuliffe, the American teacher and astronaut selected for the Space Shuttle Challenger mission. Related forms include Krista, Kristа, Christine, Christina, and Christiane.